Integration of information coming from several sensory modalities is crucial for communication and individual recognition in many species. In this experiment, we tested 6 grey-cheeked mangabeys with still pictures and vocalizations of familiar conspecifics. During the tests, the subjects faced 2 computer screens. Pictures of different familiar conspecifics were displayed simultaneously on each screen, and the vocalizations of 1 of the 2 individuals were played. We recorded the subjects’ fixation time towards each computer. Fixation time towards the individual whose vocalization was played was different from chance in most cases, which seems to be an indication of the mangabeys’ abilities to match faces of known conspecifics to their vocalizations. However, we found differences according to the kind of vocalization, the subject tested and the identity of the conspecific presented.

For some endangered parrot species, captive breeding may be the only insurance for their survival. However, many individuals in captivity do not reproduce. Artificial insemination (AI) may help overcome reproductive failures or geographic distance. For semen collection in birds, massage is the most commonly used method. However, this process, which usually requires capture and restraint, involves risk of stress and injuries. The aim of this experiment was to train large macaws to accept the physical manipulations of their body parts needed for the artificial insemination process. Within 15 weeks, a male and a female Buffon's macaw (Ara ambiguus) learned to accept handling without apparent stress. A pair of green-winged macaws (Ara chloropterus) progressed more slowly and displayed some signs of stress. This stress highlights the need to monitor the birds' possible signs of discomfort during the training in order to adapt the working protocol. These results demonstrate that it is possible to train the AI behaviors, thus avoiding the capture, restraint, and anesthesia. An added benefit to this is the potential for the training to provide a form of behavioral enrichment.

Des recherches conduites récemment en éthologie tendent à considérer les animaux comme des agents moraux. Ils ne concernent que peu d’espèces, primates surtout, et étudient essentiellement les comportements liés à l’empathie et le sentiment d’injustice. Ces deux thématiques coïncident avec certains travaux menés en psychologie et en philosophie morales qui suggèrent que notre capacité morale s’appuie sur au moins deux principales sous-capacités consacrées respectivement à un sens du juste et à un sens du bon. Ces recherches influencent notre manière de concevoir la morale et notre relation avec les animaux.